Wake County Bail Bondsman Charged with Embezzlement

RALEIGH -- Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Dempsey Akiva Cox, 40, of 4157 Elkton Drive, Raleigh; he was charged with one count of felony embezzlement.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators determined that on or about July 23, 2012, while working as a licensed bail bondsman, Cox received $10,000 bond collateral on a Wake County bond that was ultimately forfeited. Investigators allege that instead of paying the entire $10,000 to U.S. Fire Insurance Company for the payment of the bond forfeiture to Wake County, Cox retained $6,000 for his own personal use.

Cox turned himself into the Johnston County Sheriff's Office on Oct. 8 and was placed under a $10,000 secured bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 5.

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. Since Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin took office in 2009, criminal investigators have made more than 800 arrests, resulting in 430 criminal convictions thus far. These efforts have delivered more than $55 million in restitution and recoveries for victims.

An estimated 10 cents of every dollar paid in premiums goes toward the payment of fraudulent claims. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.